LOS ANGELES March 15, 2026 – In a night celebrating cinematic excellence, Netflix’s adaptation of “Frankenstein,” directed by Guillermo del Toro, secured the Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling at the 98th Academy Awards. The award recognizes the transformative work that brought Mary Shelley’s iconic monster to life in a visually striking manner.
The winning team—Mike Hill, Jordan Samuel, and Cliona Furey—crafted the film’s haunting prosthetics and designs, which played a pivotal role in Jacob Elordi’s portrayal of the Creature. Their efforts highlighted the film’s blend of horror and pathos, drawing from del Toro’s signature style of gothic fantasy. “Frankenstein” follows Dr. Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) as he grapples with the consequences of reanimating life, featuring a star-studded cast including Christoph Waltz, Mia Goth, and Felix Kammerer.
This victory marks one of several for the Netflix production, which also triumphed in categories like Adapted Screenplay (Guillermo del Toro), Costume Design (Kate Hawley), Cinematography (Dan Laustsen), Production Design (Tamara Deverell and Shane Vieau), and Supporting Actor (Jacob Elordi). Although nominated for Best Picture, it ultimately lost to Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” which dominated the evening with wins including Best Picture, Director, and Actor in a Leading Role for Michael B. Jordan.
The film’s makeup design, evoking a raw, anatomical horror, has been praised for its innovation and detail. Produced under Netflix/Double Dare You/Demilo Films/Bluegrass 7, “Frankenstein” competed against strong contenders like “Kokuho,” “Sinners,” “The Smashing Machine,” and “The Ugly Stepsister” in the Makeup and Hairstyling category.
As the awards season wraps up, this win underscores Netflix’s growing influence in prestige filmmaking, blending streaming accessibility with Academy-level artistry.
About The Author
